A journey of growth, determination, and real-world success came full circle as Tyler ISD and CHRISTUS Trinity Mother Frances Health System celebrated the Class of 2026 Project SEARCH graduates during a heartfelt ceremony at the Wisenbaker Conference Center.
This year’s graduating class included Rebecca Arellano, Alise Chacon, Denise Chacon, Aleksander Parnass, Jabari Taylor, Jerimiah Wallace, and Alfred White from Tyler High School, along with Ashlyn Baldwin, Joshua Green, Ka'Darian Session, and Jayden White from Tyler Legacy High School. Their completion of internships at CHRISTUS reflects months of hard work, perseverance, and personal growth throughout the program.
“We are celebrating more than graduation—we are celebrating growth, resilience, and the courage each student has shown in stepping into the real world with confidence,” Tyler ISD College & Career Support Advisor Jacob Hudspeth said. “Behind every success story in Project SEARCH is a team of mentors, teachers, families, and employers who believe in the potential of these students. Together, we are building futures filled with purpose, dignity, opportunity, and the confidence to succeed.”
Project SEARCH, an innovative workforce transition program, empowers students with disabilities to gain critical job skills through immersive experiences in integrated workplace settings. Backed by Tyler ISD’s commitment to Successful Student Outcomes, the program prepares students for competitive employment and greater independence after graduation.
Now in its 11th year, Project SEARCH has helped more than 100 Tyler ISD students transition successfully into the workforce. Through strong partnerships with CHRISTUS Trinity Mother Frances Health System, Texas Workforce Solutions Vocational Rehabilitation Services, the Andrews Center, and Winning Edge Employment Services, students gain hands-on experience and valuable mentorship that supports long-term success.
As part of the celebration, interns shared heartfelt reflections about the mentors and coworkers who guided them during their time at CHRISTUS, highlighting the impact of encouragement, patience, and support throughout their journey.
Tyler ISD congratulates the Project SEARCH Class of 2026 and looks forward to seeing where their talents, training, and determination will take them next.
For more information, contact Jennifer Hines at Jennifer.Hines@TylerISD.org.